You need a good phone case. It’s essential. It’s only a matter of time before your iPhone takes the dive down a flight of stairs or onto the pavement. Someday, you’re going to be checking Hinge on a ski lift and then, quite suddenly, you won’t be.

Otterbox is the gold standard for sturdy, tough-as-nails phone cases – and they usually cost a pretty penny, but you can get a great deal on a few cases on Amazon right now. Think the price you’d pay at the dollar store for a case that spells “iPhone” like “iFone.” 

OtterBox iPhone 13 Pro Symmetry Series Case – Ombre Spray

Buy Now $5.99

Buy Now

If you’re an iPhone 13 user, then you’ve hit the jackpot with today’s deal. This symmetry case is 88% off if you get in the ombre spray color, which just happens to be gorgeous. The symmetry series is one of the most fashionable ones, managing to be durable without looking as industrial and bulky as some more hardcore Otterbox products. 

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OtterBox iPhone 14 & iPhone 13 Symmetry Series+ Case – Clear

Buy Now $25.99

Buy Now

There’s also a great clear Symmetry case for iPhone 13 and 14 users, ultra slim, and containing built in magnets to connect to wireless charging pads. A great deal if you want to see the color of the green iPhone you paid extra for, $26 today at a nearly 50% discount.

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OtterBox iPhone 14 Pro Commuter Series Case – Don't Be Blue

Buy Now $23.97

Buy Now

You can also score a pretty big discount as an iPhone 14 user, with the similarly slim commuter case coming in at around $20 today. It’s a 40% discount, with the case usually costing around $35 to $40. The discount’s only this steep for the blue one, which is perfect if you’re a fan of the Avatar movies.

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OtterBox Galaxy S10e Commuter Series Case – Black

Buy Now $24.99

Buy Now

If you’re not an Apple devotee and swear by your Samsung Galaxy, there’s also a great Otterbox discount for S10e users in black – it’s typically anywhere from $28 to $41, but you can get it for $18 today.

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Dashlane — SPY’s favorite password protection tool — is aiming to rid the digital world of passwords. They’re not trying to run themselves out of business, but rather stay ahead of the competition and embrace the newest and most secure form of online authentication: passkeys.

Dashlane was the first password manager tool to roll out passkey support in the fall of 2022, and as more websites and servers adopt them over passwords, Dashlane’s service will only become more useful.

Passkeys are pairs of related cryptographic keys generated by an authenticator app on a cellphone or a password manager like Dashlane. One key is public, essentially a username that lives in a server and is largely useless for hackers, and one is private. The private one lives on your device, within an authenticator, and is safe from prying eyes.

Every time you try to log in a server will prompt the authenticator for your private key, and you don’t need to worry about remembering or keeping passwords hidden. All you need to do is open the authenticator app on your phone to access your account.

Apple and Google have been using passkeys for data protection for years now, and Apple’s new iOS in the fall will support third-party passkey support. Enter Dashlane, one of the first password management tools that will be offering passkey support for both iOS and Android. This means Dashlane will act as the authenticator, storing passkeys for whenever you need them to access an account.

When you do try and access an account, Dashlane will know which unique passkey to suggest and you can use your device PIN, face scan, or fingerprint to securely verify it’s you and complete the login quickly.

No Memorization Aside, What Makes Passkeys Superior to Passwords?

Unlikely as it may seem, passwords can be guessed by interlopers. Especially if it’s your birthday, your wife’s middle name, or something otherwise publicly accessible. And if you’re like most people, you tend to reuse your passwords, maybe even several times across your websites and databases. So one lucky guess by a cybercriminal can leave your accounts and data exposed.

A passkey cannot be guessed — it’s a FIDO (Fast Identity Online)-standard-based cryptographical combination. And each one is unique to the website it is used for, which means phishing attempts using lookalike or spoofed websites or password requests cannot work. Just hacking into your device will not open the keychain, since Face or Touch ID is required, and they’re only stored there so there are very limited points of access. Even if someone hacked into your device, passkeys stored in Dashlane are protected by your PIN, fingerprint, Face ID, and Master Password.

Nothing is 100% foolproof, but this is about as close as you can get.

You may think your password is a secret, even a well-kept secret, but it’s one that’s shared between at least two places: you and the server you’re accessing. Unlike a password, passkeys don’t share any secret or valuable information with the server. The server only receives the public key and only you open the authenticator with the private key on your device.

So Why Aren’t Passwords Going Away Altogether?

Give it time. Before long, passwords are likely to join the 8-track, the Betamax, and the floppy disk on the ash heap of tech history. There’s no better time to be an early adopter of passkeys and cutting-edge improvements. Imagine living fully password-free, never worrying about needing to reset your account, or getting that dreaded email that there’s been a “suspicious login attempt.”

But change can be slow. Right now, there are only a few websites that support passkeys. Microsoft, eBay, Best Buy, and PayPal are among the early adopters. As data breaches become increasingly common, the evolution of data security is pointed toward a full transition away from passwords and toward passkey technology, and you’ll want to have Dashlane on your side.

Dashlane is prepared to support passkeys as more and more websites begin to use them, and they’ll continue to give the best-in-class service you’re used to getting with their password protection.

Why Dashlane?

Dashlane has been offering in-browser passkey support since September 2022, and they’re one of the very first companies to offer passkey support for both iOS and Android.

Needless to say, Dashlane is fully prepared for the passkey revolution. In the meantime, it is still the best password protection service on the market. Dashlane protects all its users’ personal data, not just passwords, with AES-256 encryption, the first publicly accessible and open cipher approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) to protect Top Secret government data.

Dashlane also uses ARGON2, the most powerful and up-to-date cryptography advancements and automatically updates its users’ vaults with constant improvements. Dashlane is also constantly seeking out and repairing vulnerabilities.

And Dashlane never sees your data. Its zero-knowledge architecture means users’ Master Passwords are never stored on Dashlane’s servers or transmitted over the internet. So even if Dashlane itself were breached, your Master Password would be safe. And in its 14 years of business, Dashlane has never been breached. Whether you’re dealing in passwords or passkeys, you want a data protection solution you can trust.

Dashlane is free for basic password management on one device, including unlimited storage and sharing. They also offer these affordable upgraded plans:

Online security is all about staying ahead of the pack, whether you’re talking about hackers or competitors. Dashlane has stayed far ahead of the hackers for 14 breach-free years now, and it’s head and shoulders above the competition in preparing for the advent of passkey technology. Sign up now for deals for new customers and upgrades for Free plan users.

Amazon has almost every smart home device, sound bar, thin TV, and replacement charger available on the market. And a significant portion of that offering is on deep discount for Prime Day 2, the second day of the annual shopping bonanza that moves more AirPods than a Taylor Swift album drop. That said, a word of caution to smart shoppers: Not all discounts are created equal.

Historical price trackers show that some brands – not Amazon, but some big ones – mark up their goods prior to the Prime Day madness so that deals look more enticing than they truly are. As such, SPY‘s editors and experts have combed through thousands of enticing-looking deals to find the standout opportunities.

The choices below, recommended by our editors and readers, stand out even among the thousands of deals on offer.

Fire TV Stick

Buy Now $16.99

Buy Now

If you have a TV, and access to more than one streaming service, Roku or a Fire streaming TV device is basically essential at this point – it’s like a concierge for your streaming experience. The verdict for superior device is a toss up, but Fire TV makes a good case for itself this Prime Day at a nearly 60% discount. Cheap, easy to navigate, and includes voice assistant access with Amazon’s Alexa.

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Apple Watch (Series 8)

Buy Now On Amazon

$325 $399.00

Buy Now

It knows when you’re sleeping, it knows when you’re awake — and now it’s on sale. The cream of the smartwatch crop, and the newest one from Apple, is nearly 20% off for Prime Day. It does more than a Rolex ever could, even if it’s less flashy: it can track your sleep cycle, fitness, and even monitor your heartbeat. It’s a good deal for devotees to the House of Apple. 

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Samsung The Frame TV

Buy Now On Amazon

$987.99 $1,497.99

Buy Now

Do you want to pretend that you’re too good to have a TV in your home? Want to give the impression that you spend Sundays at the museum and haven’t seen The Idol? Samsung’s squarely named “The Frame” is a good bet. It’s a television that doubles as a painting. It displays any image of your choice – some Dutch Master’s contemplation of a rotting orange – when you’re not using it. Images pop on the matte screen.

Much cheaper (and more expensive) frame TV options have emerged as the products have become more popular (TikTok decorators have even demonstrated how to manually install frames on regular TVs), but Samsung’s is still the standard-bearer. 

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Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)

Buy Now On Amazon

$89.00 $129.00

Buy Now

If you don’t have wireless headphones yet, you’ve got it tangled. Wireless is convenient and, for the moment anyway, affordable. These 2nd generation AirPods (not to be confused with the Pros) are a good sub-$100 choice. The sound quality is excellent, there’s hands-free Siri access, and the mic is solid. AirPods Pro models may offer nifty features like background noise reduction, but for the discounted price, this older pair is a good bet.  

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Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbud Headphones with Alexa Built-in

Buy Now On Amazon

$128.00 $199.99

Buy Now

Sony’s LinkBuds are the brand’s answer to AirPods – down to its competing price point. Linkbuds cost only slightly more than the second generation AirPods, but may be more of a peer to the AirPods Pro. Like the Pro, LinkBuds have silicone tips to fit in your ears better and have a noise-canceling mode. The Sony model also offers EQ adjustments through the Sony app, meaning you can customize your sound – something Apple doesn’t have.

If you want something that’s on par with the newer AirPods Pro models, LinkBuds are a solid option – especially if you’re dead-set against the Apple Industrial Complex.

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Google Pixel Buds A-Series – Wireless Earbuds – Headphones with Bluetooth

Buy Now On Amazon

$59.00 $99.00

Buy Now

The Google Pixel Buds are a fantastic budget option for those looking to cut the cord(s), and they’re nearly half off for Prime Day. They’re comfortable, connect to phones pretty seamlessly, and have solid sound quality – although as reviewers note, it’s a lot better for making calls than listening to music, although still serviceable for the latter. 

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Google Nest Cam

Buy Now On Amazon

$239.99 $329.99

Buy Now

Having home surveillance access from a tap or two of your smartphone has emerged as a priority for many in recent years. Ring’s video doorbells are popular, but a two pack of Google’s Nest Cam is nearly $100 off on Prime Day, and a better bargain than the former’s twin pack. Nest Cams also come with night vision, floodlights, and compatibility with multiple streaming outputs (tablets, smart TVs, etc). 

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SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 Android Tablet, 10.5" LCD Screen

Buy Now On Amazon

$149.99 $229.99

Buy Now

If you’re looking to spend under $150 on a tablet, this Samsung Galaxy one is a solid deal for those priced out of the iPad class. It’s a pristine budget option – the display is the Galaxy Tab’s standout feature, making it a great option for someone mostly looking to stream videos and play games. The battery life and camera aren’t anything to write home about, but that’s an acceptable compromise given the price. 

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Belkin SoundForm Elite Hi-Fi Smart Speaker

Buy Now On Amazon

$95 $199.99

Buy Now

If you want something a little more music-forward, the Belkin SoundForm Elite is a great option that offers phone-charging capabilities and the ability to connect to Amazon’s Alexa (another version lets you connect to Google Assistant). As with the Amazon devices, you can use Alexa to manage tasks, control other smart devices, and browse the internet for you.  

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Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Gaming Laptop

Buy Now On Amazon

$599.99 $899.99

Buy Now

Lenovo has the best Prime Day deal for gaming laptops, slashing the price of its IdeaPad 3 by a full third. For less than $600, you get a lot of bang for your buck; it’s well built, has a decently long battery life, and you can upgrade its RAM, as gamers occasionally do. The Prime Day deal for the Minecraft set. 

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Belkin Boost↑Charge Wireless Power Bank 5K w/ MagSafe Compatible 7.5W Charging

Buy Now On Amazon

$35.88 $49.99

Buy Now

For those with older iPhone models (and accompanying battery life that leaves much to be desired), a battery pack is essential – especially for commuters. Even if you’ve got one of the snazzier models, a battery pack is a life saver at one point or another, i.e. a long hike, air travel, or entertaining a child with Cocomelon videos. Belkin’s magnetic charger attaches easily to the back of your phone, simply extending your case, and even comes with a magnetic kickstand (for the Cocomelon binges). Belkin claims to offer 19 hours of extended video playback for the iPhone 14 on a full charge. 

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Belkin MagSafe Wireless Charger Pad

Buy Now On Amazon

$19.99 $49.99

Buy Now

Belkin’s a giant in the charging business. This wireless pad is beloved by many, including a few members of the SPY staff. The cord length is ideal, the clip adjusts easily,, and casing feels durable. 

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LG Sound Bar

Buy Now On Amazon

$156.58 $399.99

Buy Now

“Soundbars” have become a hot item on many home entertainment center wishlists (between speakers and televisions that hide in plain sight, we’re approaching the day living rooms will contain nothing at all). This LG model runs much cheaper than other brands’ – Samsung has a $1,000+ soundbar that uses Dolby Atmos – and has speakers on the sides and in the middle, providing a more immersive soundscape. 

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I’m constantly in search of the perfect iPhone wallet case. My indecisiveness doesn’t help either, switching between sophisticated ones for fancy occasions one moment, to rugged ones that can keep up with my outdoor excursions on the weekend. Since the iPhone 14 Pro Max’s release, I’ve been rocking Bellroy’s Mod Phone Case + Wallet because it makes me feel more like a grown up ready – versus the fun gameboy styled skins I’ve used in the past.

Looking beyond the tech luster I was around while at CES 2023 earlier this year, I was drawn to another iPhone wallet case while making my rounds. And you know what? It was irresistible.

Vena vCommute Pro

Buy Now at walmart

$44.99

Buy Now

The Vena vCommute Pro stood out for its balance between style and utility. I’m talking about how it’s part protective case and part wallet. Unlike some of the other MagSafe compatible iPhone wallet cases I’ve tested, this one didn’t just snap onto the phone and jut out, but instead, it was designed in such a way that the wallet case portion remained almost flush with the rest of the protective case. On top of that, it’s one of the rare wallet cases that accommodates more than two average sized cards. I was instantly sold.

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Although, I have to admit, Vena’s offering is one of the most practical I’ve come across. The average MagSafe wallet case doesn’t take into consideration the ergonomics of the iPhone. It’s all thrown out the door because of the hump that’s created when the MagSafe wallet case is snapped onto the back of the iPhone. Just take a look at the photo below to understand my dilemma. I really get annoyed by this, but Vena’s vCommute Pro doesn’t have the same awkwardness.

Even better, I like how this wallet case can be removed to allow my iPhone to charge wirelessly or connect to other MagSafe compatible accessories — all without removing the protective case. I get annoyed all the time whenever I have to remove my iPhone from its case to use a wireless charging pad, which simply complicates the process.

While I tend to value function over form, I was surprised by how well the rubberized frame sustained shocks when I accidentally dropped it from my hand. The case also adds a bit of a lip to the area around the screen, so scratches were less of a worry whenever I laid it flat down on a surface.

I’ve been a staunch supporter of camera cover cases after an unexpected incident with my Google Pixel 6 Pro last year, so I was delighted by how the Vena vCommute Pro protects the lenses on my iPhone 14 Pro Max. That’s because the entire camera compartment is protected by a raised bezel that outlines the area. That way, it prevents the lenses from coming into contact with surfaces and cushions shocks.

As I’ve said from the start, I’m always exploring different wallet cases. It’s been nearly a decade since I’ve owned a regular wallet, but what infuriates me is that very few phone wallet cases let you store more than two cards. That’s unless you don’t mind a folio style wallet case, which to me makes it look like I’m carrying around a tiny notebook.

I don’t like the bulkiness. But I do like Vena’s compromise. While Vena explicitly states that its iPhone wallet case can store up to three cards, I’ve actually been able to stow four. That’s a big deal to me because it covers the basics: my driver’s license, credit card, health insurance card, and metro card.

Another Easter Egg that Vena added were the magnets concealed in the flap of the wallet case. They allowed it to convert into a stand for my iPhone, which came in handy for FaceTime video calls, sending out emails, and watching videos when I was too lazy to hold it myself.

I’ve tested dozens of iPhone cases through the years and I’m often reminded of their failures to achieve perfection whenever I open my desk drawer. They’re neatly tucked against each other to remind me of my never ending quest. Even though the Vena vCommute Pro may not be 100% perfect, it’s a helluva lot closer. Best of all, it doesn’t cost a fortune either.

Vena vCommute Pro

Buy Now at walmart

$44.99

Buy Now

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In the same way that vinyl record players have found new life among millennials and Gen Z, the best portable photo printers are making a comeback as well. And let’s be honest, there’s something about a physical photo that makes an image feel like a true moment captured forever in time. With the best phone photo printer, you can take those moments and put them in an album book, or proudly hang them on your fridge or wall to serve as a reminder of your favorite memories.

The idea of printing photos might seem archaic, and frankly, printing photos used to be a pain in the rear end. In the days before apps, you would have to drive to the store and wait several days to get your pictures.

Even in the digital era, the first home photo printers were clunky and awkward. Your photos might be cropped incorrectly, everybody in the photos might have the dreaded demon-red eyes, the color might be off, etc. With the best portable photo printers, you can say goodbye to all of those frustrating photo issues and get great looking photos printed practically instantly. 

Phone photo printers connect directly to your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. And they aren’t big and bulky like the printers of old. In fact, many of them you can slide in your back pocket so you can have a printer available to you whenever and wherever you want. You can also do a lot of cool things to your photos through the accompanying apps like add graphics, borders and text to your photos, and you don’t have to be a Photoshop wiz either. Portable phone printers are a clever and convenient solution to taking photos off your phone and having physical printed copies of them. 

To help you find the right product for your photo needs (or holiday gifting needs), we tested 10 of the best printers for your phone to find the best mix of print quality, print speed, size and convenience.

These are our picks for the best portable photo printers of 2023.

A note on photo size: Before we jump into our favorite portable photo printers, It should be noted that you are restricted by the size of the printer and the photo paper. So if you’re looking for big portrait prints, or even 5″ x 7″ prints, you’ll need to choose a dedicated printer that can handle that size paper. Only two of the printers below print 4″ x 6″ prints, but one of them (Epson PM400) will print BOTH 5″ x 7″ and 4″ x 6″ prints. Many of the others produce much smaller, classic Polaroid-style photos or stickers.

BEST OVERALL

Fujifilm Instax Link Wide

Buy Now On Amazon

$119.95 $149.95

Buy Now

$149 at walmart

Buy Now

Best For: Those looking for a portable phone photo printer that produces great Polaroid-style prints. 
Why We Chose It: It’s incredibly easy to use, the picture quality is great and the price is right.

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We were impressed by the picture quality produced by Fuji’s Instax Link Wide. Not only do the pictures look sharp and with good color accuracy, but the printer also prints quickly, averaging about 10 seconds per print (of course, you need to give the photo time to develop).

At that speed, you can essentially print 10 photos before the HP Sprocket Plus prints one. It is also super portable and lightweight, weighing less than a pound, and operates on a rechargeable battery. All things considered, this has the best balance of features and photo quality, and it’s our top pick for the best portable photo printer of 2023.

BEST PHOTO QUALITY

HP Sprocket Studio Plus

Buy Now On Amazon

$148.75

Buy Now

$150 at best buy

Buy Now

Best For: Getting great 4″ x 6″ photos without sending them to a one-hour print shop. 
Why We Chose It: The prints are sharp with great color saturation without any additional editing. 

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After testing all of the best portable photo printers, the HP Sprocket Studio Plus had the highest quality photo prints, and that’s why it made our list. The detail and color saturation was *chef’s kiss*. The quality was comparable to what you would have gotten from a professional photo studio back in the day.

It’s worth noting that you need about six to eight inches of free space behind the printer as the photo paper protrudes out the front and back of the printer during the printing process. Speaking of printing, it also takes about two minutes to print every photo.

If you want the highest quality 4″ x 6″ photo prints, then this printer is worth the investment. But for portability and convenience, we would recommend the Kodak Mini 3 Retro or the Instax Link Wide instead.

USER RECOMMENDED!

Epson PM400

Buy Now On Amazon

$249.99 $269.99

Buy Now

Best For: Those who want traditional 4×6 or 5x 7 prints in bulk, fast.
Why We Chose It: This printer is recommended by one of our readers who uses it constantly for projects like scrapbooking and she swears by it.

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This printer came to our attention after it was flagged by a user who loves the Epson experience. It’s a dedicated photo printer designed to print traditional photos, but unlike micro or mini printers it prints standard sizes. Unlike using a regular home office printer, it’s made to print lots of photos quickly and easily. Our user tells us she was looking for a printer that would be portable and fit on a desk with minimal space.

“I am a scrapbooker and in the past I used to send out photos to be printed in large volumes. Uber cheap, but time consuming when thinking about project preparation,” shares Genny V of Calgary, Canada. “Because this took lots of work in advance, (photoshopping, resizing to fit multiple per 4×6 or 5×7), I would lose my creativity mojo. With the Epson, I am able to print on demand as many or as few photos as I’d like when feeling creative, and maintain my creativity.”

“The only other option would be the Canon Selphy, but it only does 4×6 (and not true to size), and the quality is not nearly as good.”

BEST FOR SQUARE PHOTOS

KODAK Mini 3 Retro

Buy Now On Amazon

$89.99 $149.99

Buy Now

Best For: People that prefer square photos and modern quality rather than retro vibes.
Why We Chose It: This Kodak photo printer lets you create beautiful photo prints quickly and easily.

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Kodak still makes some great instant and disposable cameras, not to mention some of the best portable photo printers for sale today. This compact and colorful photo printer is unique in that it prints square photos, which may be a positive or a negative.

The Kodak Photo Printer app allowed us to edit photos on our phone before printing, and it connected easily to iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth. If you want high quality photo prints (or want to give a photo printer as a gift), then this is a great option.

MOST PORTABLE

Polaroid Hi-Print

Buy Now On Amazon

$69.99 $99.99

Buy Now

$130 at target

Buy Now

Best For: Having a printer with you everywhere you go thanks to the slim and light design. 
Why We Chose It: Not only can you take the printer everywhere, but you can place the photos anywhere thanks to the sticky back. 

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Polaroid is the O.G. when it comes to instant cameras. Today, the camera company is still innovating, and this cute retro printer makes photos on 2″ x 3″ prints that you can peel off the back and stick to any surface.

As you would expect from Polaroid, the prints have a retro look and feel to them and take about 55 seconds to print. The printer also comes with a free app that allows you to quickly make edits and even take a picture from your phone and immediately send it to print. With the Polaroid Hi-print, we got the best of both new and old. At around $100, it’s also one of the more affordable photo phone printers available.

BEST FEATURES

Fujifilm Instax Square Link

Buy Now On Amazon

$139.99

Buy Now

$140 at best buy

Buy Now

Best For: Creating cool animations and augmented reality that you can see using your smartphone. 
Why We Chose It: This portable printer can print classic photos but also offers fun AR technology for a unique photo-sharing experience. 

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This photo printer gave us the, “Wow, it’s so cool what technology can do nowadays,” moment. With the Instax Square Link, you can add AR effects like text, a doodle and special effects to your photos. When you print it off and view it through your phone’s camera, the AR effects will appear.

Beyond the synergy between tech and tradition, the photos are good quality and the Square app is about as easy as it gets to use — heck, you can even swipe up on a photo to print. It’s a little bit on the pricey side at $140, but this is one of the coolest and easiest-to-use phone photo printers we tested.

BEST FOR PARTIES

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11

Buy Now On Amazon

$74.95

Buy Now

$80 at best buy

Buy Now

Best For: Receptions, house parties, etc., where you want your friends and family to capture moments during the night. 
Why We Chose It: It’s a fun and nostalgic camera and printer combo that gives you an instant souvenir (though it’s more of a camera than it is a printer).

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Earlier this year, one of our resident photographers tested the best instant cameras, and this camera was far and away the best option. Admittedly, this camera wasn’t the cream of the crop in terms of photo quality – but it doesn’t really matter because it gave our photos a real vintage look and feel that’s just plain fun.

And that’s really the whole point of Fuji’s Instax Mini 11 — it’s a fun experience with an old-school feel. Snap a photo and instantly get a vintage-style photo print. To find out if this instant camera is right for you, read our full Instax Mini 11 review.

GREAT FOR 4X6 PHOTOS

Canon Selphy CP1500

Buy Now On Amazon

$139.99

Buy Now

$119 at walmart

Buy Now

Best For: Printing detailed and bordered 4″ x 6″ prints.
Why We Chose It: You can print larger 4″ x 6″ photos from anywhere in your home thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. 

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It’s only fair to compare the two 4″ x 6″ printers in the group. While we felt the HP Sprocket Studio Plus prints produced better color saturation and accuracy, the Canon Selphy CP1500 prints were more finely detailed and sharper.

The HP printer also printed the photos edge to edge, while the Canon printer left a small border around all four sides. The borders are rather nice for framing and it kept all the contents of the picture within the frame. It took about 44 seconds per print (much faster than the HP) and costs about $10 less than the HP.

And finally, we had fewer connectivity issues and it used the same app as the Selphy QX10. Whether you chose this Canon or the HP, you’ll be getting great quality prints regardless.

BUDGET PICK

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2

Buy Now at walmart

Buy Now

Buy Now at target

$99.99

Buy Now

Best For: The most affordable way to get instant prints from photos on your phone. 
Why We Chose It: It’s compact, affordable and simple to use. 

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Coming in at around $100, this is the most affordable way to get instant prints from your smartphone photos. Beyond quick prints (it spat out prints in 11 seconds per photo), we really enjoyed how the app added unique borders, gave us the ability to draw on photos, created mini collages from multiple photos, and even took a still frame from a video and printed it.

The print quality wasn’t as sharp as the other photo phone printers, or even the other Instax printers, but they’re fast and good enough. If you are looking for quick prints without all of the AR extras you get with other Instax printers, you can save yourself some coin by going with the Mini Link 2. 

BEST CONNECTIVITY

Canon Selphy Square QX10

Buy Now On Amazon

$103.99

Buy Now

Buy now at best buy

Buy Now

Best For: Quickly connecting to your printer and printing detailed mini photos. 
Why We Chose It: Considering the size of the printer, it prints rather detailed and sharp photos. 

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The extra size of the prints compared to the likes of the Instax Mini Link 2 and also the extra detail and clarity you get in the prints make the Selphy Square worth the extra money. The colors of prints were darker and more saturated on the Instax Square, but are more detailed and sharp on the Selphy Square.

With this Canon printer, you can connect to Wi-Fi and print from wherever in your home. When it comes to printing, you can add borders, text and overlays to your photos in the app. It’s a little more expensive than others, but the extra detail and connectivity was worth it for us.

HONORABLE MENTION

HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer

Buy Now On Amazon

$79.99

Buy Now

Buy now at target

Buy Now

Best For: Anyone looking for a decent portable photo printer for under $100.
Why We Chose It: This highly giftable portable printer can be used to create photo collages and 2″ x 3″ photo prints.

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Finally, we have the HP Sprocket, the 2″ x 3″ version of the Sprocket Studio Plus we already featured above. While the larger version of this printer offers the best possible quality, the same is not true with the pocket-sized Sprocket.

While it’s cute and affordable (and thus makes a good gift for teenagers or college students), the photo quality is just so-so. It’s more like a retro Polaroid than a modern photo print. We also found that the battery drained quickly. With an $80 price tag, it’s an economical option if you’re creating a photo collage and don’t care overly much about picture quality.

How We Tested The Best Photo Phone Printers 

Our goal at SPY is to get you the best tech available and hopefully save you some coin in the process. We wouldn’t necessarily call these photo phone printer inexpensive, so we tested each printer using the criteria below to uncover which printers are the best performers and best value. 

There is a wide variety of Apple Watch bands available. Apple sells a handful of different bands to go with the Apple Watch, and some are great options, like the Sport Loop and Band (which you’ll find below), but they are often pricey (you don’t even want to look at the leather option pricing from Apple). That’s where third-party bands come in.

There are a number of reasons why it’s a good idea to go with a third-party Apple Watch band:

Don’t think that “third-party” correlates with flimsy. The Apple Watch bands that we recommend below are stylish, durable and affordable. You don’t have to spend a ton of moola to get a great-looking band that sends your wardrobe to the next level.

What to Know About Apple Watch Bands

There are a few different types of bands including:

One important thing to consider is how you plan to use your watch and thus how your band may be impacted. If it’s only ever going to be worn in professional situations, you can get away with something like leather or a more delicate fabric or cloth option.

If you’re a gung-ho outdoors type, choosing something more durable like silicone or stainless steel would be the way to go. If you’re choosing a metal mesh band that is in any way colored, it’s worth noting these are usually thin coatings of paint and on more inexpensive bands, they will rub off over time.

BEST LEATHER OPTION

Marge Plus Watch Band

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$12.99

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Best For: Those seeking a professional looking watch band that looks more traditional.

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Stylish and affordable, the Marge Plus leather Apple Watch band adds the finishing touches to your wardrobe. Available in 13 different colors, you’ll be able to find a band that matches your work or casual attire. For only $12, you’ll be adding major style points by adding this watch band to your daily wear.

BEST FOR PROTECTION

SUPCase Rugged Protective Case

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$21.99

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Best For: Outdoorsy types, or the folks who are prone to scratching, damaging or cracking watches with wayward gestures. Those who work in more hands-on careers.

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Apple Watches are expensive, and not everybody works a 9-5 desk job to make ends meet. When you got to get your hands dirty, but not necessarily your watch, the SUPCase protects that delicate Apple Watch with shock absorption and a raised bezel to protect the face from unexpected blows. It’s like an OtterBox, but for your watch. Cases are available for almost every Series of Apple Watch.

AFFORDABLE SPORT BAND

Amsky Sport Watch Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$7.98 $13.99

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Best For: Replacing worn or damaged original silicone bands on a budget.

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Available in dozens of prints and colors, the Amsky sports band is a great affordable option for an Apple Watch band that’s ready for all kinds of situations. “Sometimes you just want a band that fits better with where you’re going to be,” says Kaley Scully, a hospital staffer. “For work I want something simple, but if I’m going somewhere fun, it’s nice to have a more colorful or fancy option. That’s why I like checking Amazon for fun but inexpensive Apple Watch Bands.”

The pin-and-tuck design of the band helps make your watch pop off the band for a more stylish and clean look. The lug-connection system is also easy to install. If you don’t feel like paying $50 for an official Apple Sport Band, go with this version instead.

BEST METAL BAND

Liteeology Apple Watch Band

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$19.99 $29.99

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Best For: Fans of designer metal bands, or those who need more durability than silicone and leather can provide.

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When leather won’t quite cut it, this brushed metal Liteeology Apple Watch band adds professionalism and style to your attire. It’s compatible with all Apple Watch series, and its links are easily removable to get the right size for your wrist. Not a bad way to get great style for little money.

BEST REVIEWED ON AMAZON

STG Sports Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$7.99

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Best For: Those on a budget. This inexpensive band lets you buy a couple in different colors and still pay less that some other single bands

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You can never go wrong with a minimalist look. That’s what we love about the STG Sports band because it can pair well with a casual look when you’re out, or whenever you’re at the gym working out.

SPY’s tech editor, John Velasco, wears sporty Apple Watch bands like this the majority of the time because of how well they can fit different life styles. “I have fewer decisions to make when I have on a minimalist looking Apple Watch band,” said Velasco. “The fact that I can go from the gym to a happy hour event without swapping my band because the style works for both is brilliant.”

The STG Sports band is also affordable on any budget, comfortable, and works with all Apple Watch models. It’s sporty, so don’t worry about a little sweat. Plus, it’s available in over 30 colors to mesh nicely with whatever attire you’re wearing.

BEST METAL MESH

ZXCASD Metal Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$9.99

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Best For: Shoppers looking for a good quality dupe for Apple’s Milanese Loop

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Similar to the Apple Milanese Loop style, but only $10, this Apple Watch Band comes in multiple colors. It snaps on and off your watch with one button, making it easy to swap out colors to match your wardrobe. It’s available for all Series of Apple Watch too.

RUNNER-UP LEATHER

Ouheng Genuine Leather Hybrid Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$14.99 $25.99

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Best For: Those who can’t decide between the look of leather and the anti-irritation properties of silicone.

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Get a sporty leather look with the Ouheng Leather Hybrid Band. With a leather outside and a silicone interior, it gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to Apple Watch bands. It easily slides on and off your Apple Watch, so you can swap out the band for any of the available 28 color options. And it doesn’t matter what series you have, it is compatible with all of them.  It’s sweatproof and lightweight for a comfortable feel. The best part, it’s only $25 for a great-looking and comfortable leather band, and it’s often on sale!

BEST NYLON

Apple Watch Sport Loop

Buy Now On Amazon

$48.02

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Best For: Active types who want to stay true to original Apple accessories.

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The nylon weave makes for a breathable wrap that is ideal for the active types. You can quickly hook and adjust the strap around your wrist to get the most comfortable feel, regardless of the activity. Not to mention it comes in 12 unique and cool color combinations. It’s strong, yet soft, and made specifically for Apple Watches.

BEST ORIGINAL REPLACEMENT

Apple Watch Sport Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$49.00

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Best For: Those who want to stick with factory and original accessories and don’t mind paying a premium for it.

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An overall solid choice, this Sports Band is made of strong fluoroelastomer material that’s durable, lightweight and comfortable. The material is more durable than what you’ll find from most knock-off brands, but of course, you’ll pay for it.

According to Jim Collison, tech expert, Apple Watch owner and host of the Home Gadget Geeks Podcast, Apple-branded bands last, meaning there might now be a major need to replace one, unless it’s for fashion reasons. “The standard band on my Apple Watch 4 has worked really well and is very comfortable. If it did fail, I would most likely go with a cheaper, mid range off-brand band to replace it, but if the price was close to being the same, I would go with the Apple brand.”

And with 13 different colors, you’ll be able to match this band with your favorite outfits. While we don’t really understand why this small strip of silicone needs to cost $50 if you buy it from Apple, if you prefer original accessories, this is it.

MOST UNIQUE

Bandiction Braided Band

Buy Now On Amazon

$10.99

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Best For: Creative types looking to stand out form the crowd.

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If you’re tired of your Apple Watch band looking like everyone else’s Apple Watch band, this is the choice for you. With a breathable woven design, plus an eye-catching rainbow weave, this band is for the extroverts among us.

Remember back when the first cell phones came out and then the race to make them smaller began? Shout out to that tiny Cingular phone. Well, something happened between then and now, and it seems like the race made a U-turn. Suddenly bigger is better. 

I made the switch to an iPhone in 2015/16 and got my 8th generation iPhones, and I couldn’t even begin to explain how cool I felt having a phablet. Since then, I’ve been after each of Apple’s largest models. Naturally, I’m obsessed with the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which I’ve been using since its release.

It consistently lands among the best smartphones, and for me, that is largely because of the screen real estate and resolution, the synergy between iOS devices, and the camera. After spending months using the phone, I have a lot more detail to share. 

iPhone 14 Pro Max Review: At a Glance

iPhone 14 Pro Max

$1,298 at walmart

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$1,099 at Best Buy

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iPhone 14 Pro Max: Design

Apple’s iPhone 14 Pro line is undoubtedly the high-end version of their current devices if you couldn’t already guess by comparing the price tags. I’m a sucker for a piece of tech that works and feels luxurious at the same time. 

The matte glass back of the phone paired with the stainless steel edges delivers that premium feel. Sometimes I take my case off just to stare at it, knowing that I could never free-carry in fear of damaging the pristine lines. 

You’re still only getting one Lightning port, which helps with the sleekness but can get cumbersome when you have wired headphones I’and forget to bring the adapter. Though, after a few years of this experience, the calamity this once caused seems so distant. I’m happy there are few inlets for the dust to accumulate. 

Yes, the phone is large, but it’s never felt clunky to me personally. It’s still slim and streamlined in hand. Though, I can see how for some it could be too oversized.

The rounded edges help make the phone feel a little less like a tablet. While you can’t always stretch your thumb over to the complete opposite end of the phone, I rarely found myself having to do so. Everything has been fairly accessible with one hand.

The camera cluster is larger than the predecessor I had (iPhone 12 Pro Max), but the quality of the build and functionality makes their size easy to overlook. I’m also personally a fan of the triple came cluster, it’s giving luxury. 

The MagSafe capability, which is like a magnetic connection for accessories to your phone (including safer wireless charging), is seamlessly integrated into the phone and works right out of the gate.

iPhone 14 Pro Max Display: Crisper and Cleaner

The iPhone 14 Pro Max boasts a Super Retina XDR display, which means they’ve integrated an OLED display that makes it really hard to separate individual pixels, and is smooth. If you’re curious what that means to you, basically you can expect clean graphics, images, videos, and display without being able to see the pixels that actually make up the whole image.

Something new to the 14 Pro Line as a whole is Dynamic Island. If you’re an iPhone user, you’re probably used to the notch that most of the newer models employed before. That’s where the front-facing camera sat and it didn’t integrate into the screen. 

In this display, Apple decided to do away with the notch and gave us an island that integrates the camera and interacts with the display on your phone. It’s a little black bar that shows notifications corresponding to the apps you’re using. It’ll tell you when your Uber arrives, what song you’re listening to, when your Airdrop finishes, and much more. 

It’s a handy little tool that was a welcome change for me. Even though the notches of old were small, the Dynamic Island makes a big difference. I feel like I got more usable screen space back. 

Dynamic Island aside, overall you’re getting a 6.7” (diagonally) OLED display that keeps everything crisp.

iPhone 14 Pro Max Software: More of What You Know and Then Some

As someone who is not a coder and is just an avid user of Apple products, iOS 16 brings a few upgrades, but the overall user experience is largely unchanged. The Dynamic Island brings some new features and functionality with regard to notifications. It also allows you to quickly access apps in use rather than flip through multiple open screens.

The lock screen customization was one of the more notable features of iOS 16. I got the opportunity to customize the display (including adding an always-on feature) that allowed me to choose pertinent widgets and modify the design itself. I also get to save presets for the lock screen/home screen edits, so you can switch depending on your mood.

I personally love the lock screen customization. As someone whose mood is brightened by design, getting more hands-on control of this sparked much joy. 

One other notable feature for me was the notification stacking and organization on the lock screen. The upgrade in iOS 16 made the notifications feel less invasive. They stack at the bottom of the screen and only expand when you swipe through them. You can also collapse them completely or mute them with Do Not Disturb. As someone who feels chronically overwhelmed by notifications and to-do items, this was a welcome change.

iPhone 14 Pro Max Performance: Same Great Consistency

You know that feeling when you unbox your new phone and it starts up and you can already tell it’s moving faster than your last model and all is right in the world for a few moments? Usually, that honeymoon period expires after a few months. And yet, here I am, a little less than half a year after first unboxing my iPhone 14 Pro Max, and I still have that feeling. 

Typically, at around a year after the first turn-on, it feels like iPhones, even just smartphones in general, start to slow down. The battery life diminishes, storage is full, and performance is affected. I haven’t seen that yet with the iPhone 14 Pro Max. It’s a pleasant surprise!

The overall performance is responsive and fast. I don’t see lag when multiple apps are open. The battery life is still holding together as well. I’m still charging once overnight and lasting all day (that’s with filming content and working from my phone the majority of the day).

Geek Bench gave the iPhone 14 Pro Max a score of 5367 on the multi-core test, which is impressive! It definitely feels like you’re getting what you pay for here. 

iPhone 14 Pro Max Camera(s) Review: Do You Even Need Another Camera?

The triple cluster of cameras on the iPhone 14 Pro Max is not a new addition. This cluster has been around for a few generations, but we do keep getting improvements. 

One of my favorite features is the quality of the video. The 4K video on this phone looks better than in real life at times. As a full-time content creator, I would get jealous of the creators who could post videos that looked so high-def and real, it felt like you were part of the action. The cameras here deliver that. 

The selfie cam is also clearer than ever. If you spend FaceTime calls nervously looking at yourself on the mini screen to make sure you look all right (like me), you’ll notice how clear the image is. 

I also especially love the improvements to ProRAW. This is a shooting mode that processes photo files more like a DSLR or Mirrorless camera. That means that you can edit in software like Lightroom while retaining more information from the photo file. That means you get better editing capabilities with the Apple software.

The portrait mode for photos and cinematic mode for video has only gotten better. Every time I travel without my Canon camera, I feel pretty safe knowing the iPhone 14 Pro Max is in my pocket. 

It can be a little cumbersome to figure out which camera is actually shooting the footage on the back (no they don’t all work at the same time, it depends on what and how you are shooting), but typically the camera keeps up and it’s a smooth process to shoot.

The bottom camera of the cluster is your 48-megapixel lens. It seemingly does the bulk of the work as the default camera that boots up as the camera app is launched. It’s crisp and does very well in regular lighting. As a note, you have to turn on the iPhone’s ProRAW setting to get the benefit of the full 48 megapixels. Otherwise, you’ll be shooting at 12-megapixels.

The 12-megapixel telephoto lens sits at the top of the cluster and offers you better detail for up-close shots. It’s also the one that gets utilized for Portrait mode photos. You can see the difference in detail in the photo below.

The camera that sits on the outside edge, completing the triangular cluster, is your Ultra Wide 12-megapixel camera. This camera is great for capturing landscapes or expanding your view when you don’t have much room.

Lastly, you get a 12-megapixel front-facing camera that also stands up to the task. I’ve noticed much better clarity on FaceTime calls and selfies than in previous models. A lot of the grain that was prevalent in older models (even in good light) isn’t there anymore.

You can check out some of the other photos I shot around my apartment in medium/low light as well as some I’ve shot outdoors to get a taste of the camera power. Additionally, all the photos in this post were shot on an iPhone 14 Pro Max because luckily my partner has one as well.

iPhone 14 Pro Max Battery Life: Much Better Than Expected

After using it for some time now, I am still happy with the performance of the 4,323 mAh lithium-ion battery. Normally, by this point in my phone’s life, I’d expect a significant decrease in battery efficiency and overall life, basically charging it multiple times a day. 

I’m so pleased to report that I am still on one overnight charge with no reason to do more during the day. This is with regular use throughout the day. As a full-time digital creator and social media consultant, most of my work is on my iPhone. I’m averaging about 6 hours of screen time per day. 

I primarily stick to the fast charging cable and wall adapter for an overnight charge. The iPhone 14 Pro Max has smart charging built-in to learn your charging schedule to optimize how it charges your phone. That means it’s not overloading the battery with juice and helping to extend its overall life. 

On heavy video or photoshoot days, I noticed a faster battery depletion, but overall I’m usually good on one charge from 6 am to 11 pm at night. That’s mind-blowing enough for me as someone who used to freak out when my phones would lose 10% charge within an hour after charging. 

iPhone 14 Pro Max Review: Our Verdict

Yes, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is pricey, and if you’re a tried and true Android user, you’ll probably still feel like it’s behind on the capabilities when compared to those smartphones. But if you ask me, Apple succeeds again at delivering a highly capable and user-friendly phone. 

The improvements to functionality and design are noticeable and it even makes me think that the $1099 (depending on your model) price tag is worth it.

iPhone 14 Pro Max

$1,298 at walmart

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$1,099 at Best Buy

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There’s nothing quite like the first time you unbox your new iPhone and get to feel the sharp edges and clean glass in your hand. Shortly after that, you often slap a new iPhone case on it and your once sleek new tech is now a bulky brick in your pocket. But it’s 2023, we should be able to have our cake and eat it, too. You don’t have to give up your phone’s sleekness and form factor for a little added protection. That’s where minimalist iPhone cases come in, which are some of the best iPhone accessories to consider.

These barely there iPhone cases are a minimalist’s dream. Thin iPhone cases add virtually no bulk to your phone – especially if you choose to add a skin to your phone instead of a case. That’s because iPhones today are treated with a degree of water resistance, making them impervious to the occasional splash. These cases can retain the natural beauty of your iPhone and provide plenty of variety on how you wish to display it.

Do you want to show off your Product Red iPhone with a transparent case, or do you prefer an ultra-thin opaque case without any logos or design qualities? These minimalist iPhone cases provide plenty of variety in style for those looking to keep their phone’s slim qualities intact. 

While some thin iPhone cases have bumpers on the edges for added protection, you are giving up protection that bulkier cases, like waterproof phone cases provide. Be aware that most thin iPhone cases are more for style and less for protection. But if you consider yourself rather sure handed, delicate with your phone, and want to keep your phone’s form sleek and slim, these thin iPhone cases are for you.

BEST OVERALL

Apple iPhone 14 Pro Clear Case with MagSafe

Buy Now On Amazon

$39.99 $49.00

Buy Now

$41 at Best Buy

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Why We Chose It: Who knows iPhone better than Apple? This case allows your phone’s true colors to shine through all while being MagSafe ready.

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Why get a new iPhone in a cool color if you aren’t going to show it off? The Apple iPhone Clear Case with MagSafe lets your phone’s true colors fly free all while protecting your new handheld. 

We really like how the polycarbonate is flexible and provides protection for all your buttons and cameras, but also allows you to continue to successfully use MagSafe or wireless QI chargers without having to remove your case. It’s no surprise that a case designed by Apple is a premier minimalist phone case for Apple users.

MOST STYLISH

Nomad Modern Leather Case

Buy Now

$49.95

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$50 at best buy

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Why We Chose It: The leather protective case adds an elegance to otherwise often bland, plasticy phone cases. 

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Why shouldn’t your iPhone case look as good as your wallet? The Nomad Modern Leather Case classes up your iPhone with a leather-backed protective case that is stylish, minimalistic and thin. Even though it’s stylish, it’s still rugged enough to survive up to a 10 foot fall.

SPY tech editor, John Velasco, adored the sophisticated look the case gave to the iPhone using it recently. It is even compatible with MagSafe and wireless charging devices. And unlike other cases that wear, crack and get uglier with use, these cases get more refined, look better and age like a fine wine over time.

FORM FITTING

Caudabe Veil iPhone 14

Buy Now

$25.50

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Why We Chose It: If you hate the way a normal case makes your phone feel, this case fits your phone like a glove. 

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If you’re looking for a thin iPhone case in the first place, you probably don’t like the way most cases add extra bulk to your phone. The Caudable Veil adds virtually no extra bulk after wrapping around your phone, giving your hands the same comfortable feel of not having a phone case on.

The case adds a little extra grip to your phone too making it feel a little more secure in your hands. But with a phone case this thin, the caveat is limited protection from drops. If you’re as sure-handed as they come, and you want one of the most minimalist phone cases around, this is a great pick.

BEST SKIN

Dbrand White Marble iPhone 14 Skin

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$19.95

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Why We Chose It: The thinnest solution available with some of the coolest designs we’ve seen for thin iPhone cases. 

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Dbrand makes some of the wildest and most stylish designed skins for not only your iPhone, but also for other handhelds and laptops. These skins can range anywhere from making the back of your phone look like white marble to looking as if your phone has no back at all and you can see the inside components of your phone.

You can even use the customizer and design your own iPhone skin. We’ve tried a bunch out through the years and they’re the coolest way to make your iPhone uniquely yours. Be warned, these skins don’t do much for protection, it is simply for aesthetics to please the minimalist in you.

THINNEST IPHONE CASE

Totallee iPhone 14 Case

Buy Now On Amazon

$19.00 $39.00

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$39 at walmart

$39.00

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Why We Chose It: While being the thinnest case, it also is a great mix of affordability, protection, and lets your iPhone’s colors shine through. 

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The case only adds an additional 0.02-inches to the thickness of your phone, so you’ll hardly notice the difference in size, but you’ll feel the extra grip provided by the Totallee Clear iPhone 14 Case.

The thermoplastic polyurethane is clear, but also durable and strong, so the color of your iPhone can be on display while still being protected from drops and scratches. This is a great clear minimalist iPhone case at a good price.

BEST BUDGET

TORRAS Slim Fit for iPhone 14

Buy Now On Amazon

$16.95

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$27 at torras

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Why We Chose It: This no frills thin iPhone case is a minimalist’s cup of tea.

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No labels or logos, incredibly thin and opaque and incredibly affordable; for the minimalist who wears plain colored tees and Chucks, your dream thin iPhone case is here. It’s razor thin, only adding 0.03-inches and only 0.61 ounces to your phone — so virtually nothing.

Although it’s thin, the raised lip around the screen and cameras keep them safe when a butter finger moment occurs. For sub $20, this case is hard to pass for those seeking a minimalist iPhone case.

BEST PROTECTION

Memumi Real Carbon Fiber 14 Pro Max Case

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$35.99

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Why We Chose It: When you consider the protection the thin iPhone case provides along with the price, it’s a must have for minimalists. 

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The Memumi iPhone case is constructed of military grade carbon fiber that is drop tested and heat resistant, providing about as good of protection as you can get for a case this thin.

Speaking of thin, the case only adds 0.05 inches to your phone, so it’s not like you sacrifice thinness for protection. You also don’t have to sacrifice wireless charging as you can keep the case on to charge wirelessly. All things considered, this is one of the best options for a minimalist iPhone case.

ADDED PROTECTION

Peel Super Thin iPhone Case

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$49.00

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Why We Chose It: A clear back but with bumpers protecting the outside of your phone make it a good mix of protection and style. 

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The clear backing allows for those deep purples, midnight blacks and product reds to be on full display. The protective bumper that wraps around the perimeter of your phone provides extra drop protection that thin iPhone cases often lack.

For MagSafe and wireless charger uses, you’re good there, too. Considering there are no logos on the case either, this is a great choice for those looking for a minimalist iPhone case design.

How We Chose the Best Minimalist iPhone Cases

We looked for iPhone cases that aren’t going to add extra bulk or weight to your iPhone. Remember, the goal is to preserve that beautifully designed iPhone, not mask it in a bulky case. Many of the iPhone cases we tested and reviewed don’t add more than 0.05 inches around your iPhone.

We also included picks from our SPY contributors and editors who use certain cases daily. Finally, we looked for thin iPhone cases that have unique design qualities, like cases designed from carbon fiber to thin cases with rubber edges, to provide you with a variety of styles and additional iPhone protection.

Who can deny the ubiquitous power and pull of the mighty iPhone? First introduced in June 2007, Apple’s smartphone has achieved the kind of decades-plus notoriety that consistently places whatever the latest model is at the top of the charts, and for good reason. Year after year, the iPhone delivers one cutting-edge feature after another, and while it’s dizzying enough to keep up with the hardware lineage, it can be even more difficult to keep tabs on all the best accessories for the iPhone — but that’s where we come in.

As vetted experts on all things iPhone and iPhone-adjacent, we’ve put together this exhaustive list of all the greatest accessories you can outfit your iPhone with in 2023, including everything from cases and magnetized wallets to camera lenses. 

How We Chose The Best iPhone Accessories

When choosing the best iPhone accessories for sale in 2023, there are several things we take into consideration when we curate our list, but the majority of them have been chosen based on our real-world testing, our long-term use and customer reviews. They’re also practical gadgets that have purpose in complementing the iPhone. We take into consideration that iPhones are used for a variety of purposes.

Therefore, no matter if you’re a content creator capturing video, a jet-setter that can’t readily access outlets for power, or frequently send emails out for your job, these accessories cover a broad range of uses. The best iPhone accessories should have a meaningful place throughout everyday life. Just like the iPhone, it would be challenging trying to get through a day without these accessories.

Even though brand reliability is also equally important, especially when a product has proven to be reliable, there are other brands that come across our desks that surprise us. They might not be as recognizable, but it’s not a reason to totally avoid them.

BEST WIRELESS EARBUDS

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

Buy Now On Amazon

$199.99 $249.00

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$200 at Walmart

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Best For: Those of us looking for a solid set of wireless earbuds with excellent noise-cancelling capabilities. 
Why We Chose It: Apple’s AirPods product line continues to evolve, and the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) deliver an exceptional audio experience, on top of a comfortable fit and increased durability.

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Review: Are the Apple AirPods Pro 2 Enough of an Upgrade?

Key specs:

A new iPhone and AirPods Pro go together like spaghetti and meatballs. The seamless integration and connection make using them simple for even the least technically savvy person. The fit is excellent for all ear shapes thanks to the inclusion of fitted tips on the Pros. But the real bread and butter is the active noise cancellation and transparency mode which allows you to hear yourself without having to remove an earbud, further improved through the Adaptive Transparency feature that lets you hear things outside while reducing overbearing sounds. You can also charge through MagSafe and wireless charging.

BEST WIRELESS SPEAKER

Apple HomePod Mini

$99 at apple

Buy Now

$99 at walmart

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Best For: Apple fans who want a great-sounding speaker for music and podcasts, and a quick and easy way to pair and share iOS tunes using AirPlay 2.
Why We Chose It: The Apple HomePod Mini is more than your standard smart speaker, and with its built-in AirPlay 2 and HomeKit features, it’s definitely one of the best audio accessories for iPhone users.  

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Read More: Apple HomePod Mini Review

Key specs:

The Apple HomePod Mini is the must-have audio accessory for all iPhone devotees. With its quick and easy setup, pulse-pounding sound, and plentiful listening options, the Mini goes far beyond what we expect from a traditional wireless speaker. One of our favorite features has to be the Mini’s computational audio, which automatically calibrates sound output based on your listening environment. We’re also big fans of the ability to use AirPlay 2 to instantly send music from your iPhone or iPad to the Mini (and vice-versa). 

Sure, Android owners may not receive the same range of convenient features, but if you’re all in on whatever Apple makes, the HomePod Mini is a worthy investment for your home. 

AN AWESOME AIRPODS ADAPTER

AirFly Pro

Buy Now On Amazon

$54.99

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$59 at Walmart

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Best For: Those of us that need a quick and easy way to use our AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones for in-flight entertainment purposes.
Why We Chose It: More than just a run-of-the-mill adapter, the AirFly Pro allows you to connect two different sets of AirPods to a single listening device, and the built-in battery will last up to 16 hours.

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Read More: 32 Best Carry-on Backpacks for Air Travel 

Key specs:

Apple going strictly wireless has come with its set of frustrations. One of them is the lack of Bluetooth support for in-flight entertainment. That’s where the AirFly Pro comes in. You can use this to connect your Bluetooth iPhone accessories like AirPods Pro or your AirPods Max to the AirFly Pro and connect it with the in-flight entertainment through the 3.5mm port. It’s a minor price tag to pay for a world of convenience.

A SOLID WALLET-STAND

MOFT Snap-on Magnetic Stand

Buy Now On Amazon

$29.99

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$3 at moft

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Best For: Adding carry-on abilities and multi-angle viewing to your iPhone 14, 13, or 12.
Why We Chose It: The MOFT Snap-on Magnetic Stand offers three unique viewing angles, multiple color options, and a safe and secure wallet attachment.

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Read More: The Best iPhone Wallet Cases

Key specs:

We love MOFT, the technology accessory company behind some of the most ingenious iPhone accessories in the world. After a wildly successful Kickstarter, the company has expanded its line of origami-style phone stands, cases and chargers. This two-in-one stand and wallet can hold your cards while you’re on the go or prop up your phone while you’re watching YouTube videos. It also takes advantage of MagSafe for added convenience.

AN EXCELLENT TRACKER

Apple AirTags

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$29.00

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$29 at walmart

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Best For: Keeping track of your most vital accessories, like car-keys and wallets.
Why We Chose It: Tried and true, the Apple AirTag is easy to use, cheap enough to buy, and is weather-resistant, too.

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Read More: The Most Reliable Luggage Trackers

Key specs:

With Airtags, the days of losing your keys or wallet are essentially over. For a forgetful person, this is music to your ears. Airtags are compatible with iPhones or iPads iOS 14.5 or later. These tiny trackers use Bluetooth from nearby iPhone devices to ping your lost keys, wallet, or purse (whatever your tracker is attached to) and provide you directions when you’re within 30 feet of your lost item. The tracking is reliable and the tracker itself is so small and non-intrusive, you can drop it in a bag and forget about it. Hopefully, you don’t forget your bag, but hey, that’s why you bought the tracker.

A CONVENIENT POWER STATION

Anker 3-in-1 Charging Case

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$29.99

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$30 at Anker

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Best For: Charging your iPhone and other go-to accessories from a single command center. 
Why We Chose It: Compatible with iPhones, Apple Watches, and other devices, this Anker 3-in-1 Charging Station is perfect for at-home use and is small enough to travel with, too.

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Read More: The Best Wireless Chargers

Key specs:

The Anker Foldable 3-in-1 Charging Station is something of a work of genius, able to charge a phone, wireless earbuds, and smartwatch all at once. You can even fold it to find the perfect angle to suit you, or to fold up and store in a bag when you’re traveling. The one downside is that this isn’t compatible with Samsung smartwatches.

BEST WIRELESS CHARGER

Apple MagSafe Charger

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$37.90

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$34 at walmart

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Best For: Wirelessly recharging your iPhone and AirPods.
Why We Chose It: Apple’s MagSafe Charger works with numerous Apple devices and features an integrated USB-C cable for powering the pad.

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Read More: The Best iPhone Chargers

Key specs:

To quickly and reliably charge your iPhone, the MagSafe Charger is the way to go. It snaps onto the back of your phone and even charges through some cases (we’ll get to MagSafe cases later). When paired with a 20W power adapter, you will get the fastest charging available for your iPhone. And you don’t have to own a new iPhone 12 to take advantage — MagSafe works with iPhone 8 and later.

BEST WIRELESS HEADPHONES

Apple AirPods Max

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$499.99 $549.00

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$450 at walmart

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Best For: Audiophiles who want nothing but the best when it comes to wireless listening.
Why We Chose It: The Apple AirPods Max look great, sound incredible, and are the best headphones to own for Apple’s Spatial Audio feature.

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Read More: The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Key specs:

If you want unrivaled sound quality to go with your iPhone, the Apple AirPods Max are the way to go. The audio is pristine and the headphones are so comfortable you won’t mind wearing them all day, whether for work or just personal enjoyment. Features such as top-of-the-line noise-canceling as well as 3D spatial audio further separate these as one of the best accessories for iPhone users far and wide.

BEST CLIP-ON CAMERA LENS

Xenvo Pro Lens Kit

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$39.99

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Best For: Those of us looking to add some enhanced photographic capabilities to our iPhone cameras.
Why We Chose It: The Xenvo Pro Lens Kit includes both macro and wide-angle lens attachments, and is super-easy to take on-the-go.

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Read More: The Most Convenient Clip-on Camera Lenses

Key specs:

When it comes to adding depth and detail to your everyday iPhone pictures, the Xenvo Pro Lens Kit is an excellent accessory that clips on in seconds and starts working right away. Best of all, the entire kit comes with an LED light ring for throwing some extra illumination on whatever subject you’re snapping a pic of, and the convenient travel kit makes it extremely easy to take your Xenvo kit on your next getaway.

BEST PHOTO PRINTER

Lifeprint Portable Photo Printer

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$145.21

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$150 at Bloomingdale's

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Best For: Constant photographers and memory-grabbers who need a fast and reliable printer for their iPhone. 
Why We Chose It: Mobile photo printers aren’t cheap, but when it comes to value and reliability, the Lifeprint Portable Photo Printer produces high-quality photos in seconds flat, and is very simple to use.

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Read More: The Best Photo Printers

Key specs:

This Bluetooth and WiFi-enabled photo printer makes printing photos from your iPhone quick and easy. When connected to WiFi you can print from anywhere in your house with the click of a button. This printer also has an awesome secret power — it prints live photos. How? Turn your camera on and hover over a printed live photo and watch your photo come to life. Pretty cool, huh?

BEST SCREEN PROTECTOR

UltraGlass Screen Protector

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$21.99 $30.99

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Best For: Any drop or ding you can throw at your iPhone’s oh-so-sensitive screen.
Why We Chose It: The UltraGlass protector is made with military-tested materials for the absolute best resistance to any and all damage that your iPhone screen could experience.

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Read More: The Best iPhone Screen Protectors

Key specs:

It’s a fact of life: we’re all going to drop our smartphones. What matters though is the kind of screen shield (and case) that you’ve got your phone protected with, in the very likely event that your iPhone takes a tumble. And for the ultimate armor, we chose the UltraGlass screen protector. Military-tested and built for simple and quick installation, you can rest assured that the UltraGlass will keep your go-to-device cracked-screen-free. 

AN AWESOME PHOTOGRAPHY ADD-ON

Xenvo Shutterbug

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$18.99 $25.99

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Best For: Those of us who could always use an extra hand (or several) when snapping a large family photo.
Why We Chose It: The Xenvo Shutterbug can be instantly paired to a number of iOS devices, and can be used from up to 30 feet away.

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Read More: The Best Smartphones to Buy in 2023

Key specs:

Withs its convenient lanyard attachment and straightforward Bluetooth connectivity, the Xenvo Shutterbug is one of the best iPhone accessories for optimizing your smartphone photography. In fact, the Shutterbug is particularly  great when it comes time to take a photo of the whole family, and you need to set your phone up a few feet from all your relatives. Just pair, wait for the indicator light to shine blue, and press the button to grab a photo or shoot a video. 

OUR FAVORITE IPHONE WALLET

Apple Leather Wallet with MagSafe

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$54.28 $59.00

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$60 at target

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Best For: Those of us who want to carry our go-to credit cards with us at all times, while outfitting our iPhones with a top-notch accessory.
Why We Chose It: The Apple Leather Wallet is MagSafe-compatible, stores up to three cards, and includes powerful magnets for adhering to your iPhone.

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Read More: The Best iPhone Wallet Cases for 2023

Key specs:

A lot of people want a PopGrip for their phones, but it gets in the way of MagSafe charging. After all, how are you supposed to charge something with a big honking grip in the way?This PopSockets PopGrim presents an easy solution: it just slides off when you need to charge something. Bear in mind that this is designed to be used with a compatible case, and isn’t recommend for bare phones.

ALSO CONSIDER

Apple Silicone Case with MagSafe

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$49.00

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$50 at target

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Best For: Protecting your iPhone 14 Pro Max from drops, dings, and other damage.
Why We Chose It: Made by Apple, this tough silicone case is built to withstand any physical tribulations that may befall your iPhone 14 Pro Max.

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Read More: The Best iPhone 14 Cases

Key specs:

These smooth and soft cases are comfortable to hold and come in a wide variety of colors. The feel is soft yet grippy, while the inside is lined with microfiber for extra phone protection. The best part is you don’t have to remove your case to wirelessly charge it with a MagSafe Charger — it will charge right through the case.

BEST MAGSAFE CASE ACCESSORY

PopSockets PopGrip for MagSafe

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$29.99

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$30 at best buy

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Best For: Propping up your iPhone for easier page-scrolling and video-watching.
Why We Chose It: PopSockets is one of the best iPhone accessory brands, and this MagSafe-friendly PopGrip is easy to attach and remove.

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Read More: The Best MagSafe Accessories

Key specs:

A lot of people want a PopGrip for their phones, but it gets in the way of MagSafe charging. After all, how are you supposed to charge something with a big honking grip in the way?This PopSockets PopGrim presents an easy solution: it just slides off when you need to charge something. Bear in mind that this is designed to be used with a compatible case, and isn’t recommend for bare phones.

EXTERNAL MICROPHONE

Rode AI-Micro

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$39.99 $49.00

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$79 at adorama

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Best For: Podcasters and other content creators that need a fast and simple interface for connecting microphones to an iPhone.
Why We Chose It: Rode is one of the top microphone brands on the market, and the AI-Micro offers convenient connections and recording capabilities for most iOS users.

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Read More: The Best Microphones for Streaming 

Key specs:

The death of the headphone jack with the iPhone is still affecting people on a regular basis. If you’re passionate about shooting video with your iPhone and prefer using a dedicated microphone to record audio, then the Rode AI-Micro has everything you need. For podcasters, it’s also an essential iPhone accessory because it allows you to connect various microphones for audio recording — both lavaliers and other external microphones. There’s even a headphone jack that allows users to monitor the audio levels of the recorded audio, as well as the ability to connect your favorite pair of headphones or earbuds to listen to music.

ANOTHER GREAT ITEM

Universal Cell Phone Stand

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$8.99 $13.99

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Best For: Putting your iPhone on a quick and simple podium (with built-in cable access).
Why We Chose It: ToBeoneer may not have made the most tech-heavy phone stand, but when you need to inexpensively elevate your iPhone, this is the way to go.

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Read More: The Best Phone Stands

Key specs:

There are hundreds of phone stands on Amazon, and many of them feature wireless charging (like our previous option). However, we’re fans of the ToBeoneer universal phone stand. We’ve tested this accessory and found that it’s perfect for the office. The stand is made from aluminum and it’s chic, affordable and sturdy, with a conveniently placed hole at the bottom for charging cables.

BEST MAGNETIZED CHARGER

ESR HaloLock Wireless Power Bank

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$34.99 $44.99

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Best For: Charging your iPhone on-the-go, without an actual charging cable.
Why We Chose It: If you’re an iPhone that’s MagSafe compatible, the ESR HaloLock Power Bank is simple to attach to your iOS device and provides plenty of power when you need it most.

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Read More: The Best Power Stations

Key specs:

You could go with a battery bank to charge your iPhone, but that means you’ll need to carry along a Lightning cable with you. Ditch the wire and check out the ESR HaloLock Wireless Power Bank because it offers wireless charging courtesy of MagSafe. If you own a newer iPhone that supports MagSafe, you’ll be able to easily attach this directly on the back of the iPhone for wire-free charging. This 10,000 mAh battery is also pretty compact in size and can offer about 1.5 charges for your iPhone 14. It even features a USB-C port as well, which can charge all your other devices.

BEST SMARTPHONE RIG

SmallRig Wireless Control Foldable Smartphone Stabilizer

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$36.99

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$37 at B&H

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Best For: Adding microphones, extra lights, and other useful gadgets to your iPhone photo-taking.
Why We Chose It: A smartphone rig may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking to outfit your iPhone photography with the go-to accessories you’ll need most, this SmallRig assembly will more than get the job done.

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Read More: The Best Smartphone Rigs for Filmmakers

Key specs:

If you’re a content creator, the SmallRig is a must-have. This is kind of like an entire studio in one. Not only does it contain a mount for your phone, but it also includes places to attach an LED light and a microphone, as well as a wireless control button. It makes it easy to start filming with everything you need right there. While the SmallRig is advertised as working with the iPhone 13, it’s adjustable in size so it will fit most modern-sized phones.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 range of phones launched today, February 17, and you can get your can already get one with a discount if you know where to look. In fact, we’ve found a deal on Amazon that has the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with 13% off. Maybe you could use those savings to get some of the best earbuds while they’re on sale.

While the S23 isn’t as big an upgrade as some people were hoping, it’s still likely to end up as open of the best phones of 2023, which is impressive given it’s still only February. There are other S23 versions on sale too, so have a look if you don’t like the sound of the Ultra.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Is Already On Sale

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the most powerful Samsung phone yet. It has a 200-megapixel camera, which basically means it’s better than your eyes by a substantial amount and an impressive night mode so you can make the most of the beastly camera whatever time it is. It also has smooth video thanks to stabilization as well.

The Ultra also comes with a built-in S Pen, which makes it easier to draw or write on your phone and works with Samsung Note, Microsoft Office, and Google Suite. It can even convert handwriting to text, which is a nice boon for people who just don’t like keyboards in general. The pen can even be sued as a remote for the camera too, which is a nice bonus for group selfies.

The phone should also be a bit of a beast when it comes to gaming as well, thanks to a powerful processor and plenty of memory. The 5,000mAh battery should also mean it can last a fair while, although we’ll need to test it out before we commit to how well that holds up.

SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 Ultra Cell Phone

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$1,199.99 $1,379.99

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SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 Ultra Cell Phone + $100 Amazon Gift Card Bundle

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$1,199.99 $1,379.99

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